The 2025 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival (HBCUFLF) is back and ready to shine, bringing new opportunities for young filmmakers to showcase their talent and learn from industry pros. Now in its third year, this groundbreaking festival is all about elevating future storytellers.
Submissions officially open on March 5, 2025, and run through August 28, 2025, with an exciting new addition: the Global Impact category. For more details and to submit your work, visit www.hbcufirstlook.com or www.FilmFreeway.com.
The new Global Impact category expands the festival’s reach, inviting storytellers from around the world to join in. With international films gaining more attention on platforms like Netflix, OkayAfrica, and BBC, the festival is positioning itself to foster global collaboration in the film industry. Aspiring filmmakers with projects shot internationally can submit their work for this category.
In 2024, the festival received over 250 submissions, showcasing the incredible range of young talent. Winning films included categories like short films, features, mobile films, documentaries, and animation.
The festival’s first year in 2023 kicked off with the screening of Rustin, directed by George C. Wolfe and produced by The Obamas’ Higher Ground imprint and Netflix. In 2024, the festival highlighted activism, focusing on the powerful story of Kemba, a film about a female HBCU student who was wrongfully incarcerated. The festival’s impact extended beyond the screen, helping secure freedom for Michelle West and a full pardon for Kemba Smith Pradia.
This year, the HBCUFLF will continue to champion diverse voices, with a stronger emphasis on international perspectives through the new Global Impact category. It’s not just a festival; it’s a platform that educates, empowers, and inspires future collaborations between industry veterans and the next generation of filmmakers.
